Google has denied claims that its operating system for in-car entertainment, Android Auto, spies on users.
The report, from Motor Trend magazine, said that Porsche had chosen not to use Android Auto in its newest cars, instead opting for Apple Carplay over privacy fears.
In an overview of 2017’s iteration of the Porsche 911, Motor Trend’s Jonny Lieberman wrote: “as part of the agreement an automaker would have to enter with Google” to include Android Auto.
“Certain pieces of data must be collected and mailed back to Mountain View, California. Stuff like vehicle speed, throttle position, coolant and oil temperature, engine revs – basically Google wants a complete OBD2 [on-board diagnostics] dump whenever someone activates Android Auto.
“Apple, by way of stark contrast, only wants to know if the car is moving while Apple Play is in use.”
However, Google has disputed the report, specifically denying the claims that it collected “throttle position, oil temperature, and coolant temperature”.
In a statement, the company said: “We take privacy very seriously and do not collect the data the Motor Trend article claims such as throttle position, oil temp, and coolant temp. Users opt in to share information with Android Auto that improves their experience, so the system can be hands-free when in drive and provide more accurate navigation through the car’s GPS.” That opt-in is similar to the method used by Android phones, letting users choose the data sharing they are comfortable with when they set up their car.
